ransom

Ransom refers to a sum of money or payment demanded for the release of a person, property, or information that has been captured or held hostage. In modern contexts, it often involves cybersecurity threats where hackers seize control of data or systems and request payment to restore access. This practice is illegal and can have severe consequences for victims, including financial loss and data compromise. Negotiating or complying with ransom demands can perpetuate criminal behavior, leading to further attacks. Legal authorities often advise against paying ransoms to discourage such crimes.